Dabrafenib (By mouth)

Dabrafenib (da-BRAF-e-nib)

Treats melanoma (skin cancer) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Tafinlar

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to dabrafenib or if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule

Medicines used to treat cancer are very strong and can have many side effects. Before receiving this medicine, make sure you understand all the risks and benefits. It is important for you to work closely with your doctor during your treatment.

Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

Take this medicine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Allow about 12 hours between each dose.

Swallow the capsule whole. Do not open, crush, or break it.

This medicine should come with a Medication Guide. Ask your pharmacist for a copy if you do not have one.

Missed dose: If it is more than 6 hours until the time you normally take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is less than 6 hours until your regular time, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Some medicines can affect how dabrafenib works. Tell your doctor if you are also using clarithromycin, dexamethasone, gemfibrozil, ketoconazole, midazolam, nefazodone, warfarin, or birth control pills.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Birth control pills may not work as well to prevent pregnancy when used with this medicine. Use another form of birth control (including condoms or spermicide) along with your pills. Use an effective form of birth control during treatment with this medicine and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.

Do not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine and for at least 2 weeks after the last dose.

Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, low blood pressure, or G6PD deficiency. Tell your doctor if you plan to have surgery, including dental surgery.

This medicine may cause the following problems:

Increased risk for other cancers (skin and non-skin cancer)

Increased risk of bleeding

Heart problems

Eye or vision problems

Fever (which may be serious)

High blood sugar

This medicine could cause infertility. Talk with your doctor before using this medicine if you plan to have children.

Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.